Scientists Want To Ban Handshaking: We Have a Solution
With cold and flu season on the way and the fear of ebola on the rise, scientists are urging us to rethink the age-old practice of shaking hands. A recent study by the American Journal of Infection Control demonstrates just how much bacteria is transmitted through a simple handshake. Reenacting several popular greetings using specially "contaminated" gloves, researchers discovered that almost twice as much bacteria was transmitted by shaking has as opposed to giving a high-five. A quick "fist bump" transmitted the least amount of bacteria.
This study concerns many health professionals, as the spread of infectious disease has become a more serious issue over the past few years. The website StopHandshaking.com is dedicated to getting workpace professionals to start fist-bumping instead of shaking hands. They claim that it could cut down 80% of transmitted disease.
An author of the Journal's study, David Whitworth, PhD said "It's unlikely that a no-contact greeting could supplant the handshake; however, for the sake of improving public health we encourage further adoption of the fist bump as a simple, free, and more hygenic alternative to the handshake."
I believe the fist bump is a great start. But we can certainly do better. Introducing "The Boris Bump." Take a look at the demonstration below and learn how to use my patented no-contact greeting. Give it a try and let us know if you think it could possibly catch on. If we work together we might just make the Hudson Valley a healty, handshake-free utopia!